Real Nappies

Disposable nappies are a pain in the …., but you do have a choice...modern reusable nappies

No doubt you want the best for your children. To achieve this we must pass on a healthy environment to them. Reusable nappies have many benefits:

• for parents (cost)
• for babies (comfort)
• for the environment (less waste)

Modern reusable nappies are shaped and fit like disposables and there is a wide selection of nappies available made from natural fibres which are more comfortable next to a baby’s skin.

Nappy Facts

• They are easy to use and there are no pins!
• They can save you money (up to £500).*
• They come in funky designs with matching accessories.
• They only need a 60°c wash and will line dry or tumble dry.

Nappy washing services may be available in your area. They deliver clean sterile nappies to your door and collect the dirty nappies. (Contact nappyline**)

Did you know?

• Britain throws away 8 million nappies a day.*
• Nappies make up half of the rubbish from a household with just one baby.
• Nappy waste costs Devon taxpayers over £1.5 million per year.
• Disposable nappies can take hundreds of years to decompose.
• Washing reusable nappies doesn’t take a lot of effort. A 60°c wash with your usual non-biological detergent is all that is needed to keep nappies clean and hygienic.

Getting Started

You could start your collection off with a few reusable nappies and a soft, breathable cover. Supplement these with your usual disposables and as you save money, put that aside to increase your reusable nappy collection. Within a few weeks you won’t have to buy another disposable.

It is never too late to start to use reusable nappies. Using just a few reusable nappies will save you money and cut down on waste, a great way to pass on a healthy environment to your child.

Want to try Real Nappies for free?

A Devon Real Nappy trial kit is now available in the Torbay area. It is managed by the Totnes Nappy Company (based in Totnes) who already has good links with local maternity units and health professionals. There is a small and medium kit (small one from about 8lbs onwards) and, depending on demand, this may be increased over time. The kit contains everything parents will need for a month - a variety of nappies and wraps in different shapes, styles and materials plus a comprehensive guide on how to use, wash and care for the nappies. The nappy advisor will give parents a demonstration and will be on hand to give advice throughout the trial. There is no obligation to buy after the trial.

Residents will need to call the Totnes Nappy Company direct on 01803 840680 for more information about a one month trial.

For further information on real nappies or other recycling queries please contact the Recycling Team.

Further Information

Your local real nappy supplier is Henry & Mae, 16, The Crossways Centre, Hyde Road, Paignton. Tel: 01803 663634. The have lots of different real nappy options and can offer advice and information about which nappy would be best for your baby

• National Association of Nappy Services (NANS) - Information on where to buy reusable nappies
  Tel: 0121 6934949
  
• Real Nappy Association – the central source for information and advice on all nappy related issues. Please send a large SAE for a free information pack to PO Box 3704, London, SE26 4RX.
  
• Women's Environmental Network (WEN) - Information on where to buy reusable nappies and laundry services.
  PO Box 30626, London, E1 1TZ
  Tel: 02074 819004